Central Pennsylvania is a hotspot for human trafficking. This bill aims to prevent it

HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) – Hundreds of human trafficking incidents have been filed across Pennsylvania, especially in the Midstate, over the past five years as the state remains a hotspot for the crime.

“It’s here and it’s everywhere,” Dauphin County District Attorney Fran Chardo said. “This is an area where statistically it’s higher. I think part of that is because of travel patterns.”

Four out of ten Midstate counties rank among the highest for human trafficking incidents. The alarming statistic is prompting lawmakers to take action. House Bill 1286 would require hospitality workers to undergo prevention training or face a fine of up to $500.

“Basically, it helps them identify the signs of human trafficking,” Democratic Representative Khan Tarik said. “It’s not like in Hollywood where it’s super obvious that things are happening. A lot of these signs are very subtle.”

Republican Representative Eric Nelson is a co-sponsor. He agrees that more needs to be done to prevent the crime from happening.

“It’s much more of a problem than people think,” Nelson said. “It’s here and it can happen to anyone’s young teen, troubled teen or young adult.”

If you or someone you know needs help, you can call the toll-free National Human Trafficking Hotline 24/7 at 1-888-373-7888.